The SOUTHERN RIGHT WHALES are probably the best known of all in SA, so named because their high yield of oil and very silky baleen made them the ‘right’ whale to hunt.   

They can be seen in the ocean from May to October when they migrate from their sub-Antarctic feeding grounds to the sheltered Plettenberg Bay to birth, raise their calves and breed.   

They are slow moving but give spectacular displays of breaching, lob-tailing, spy-hopping and engaging in

Apparent courtship rituals. 

The HUMPBACK WHALES are seen in Plettenberg Bay, and all along the garden route to Hermanus, from May to October during their annual migration from the Antarctic to their breeding grounds off Madagascar and Mozambique.   

Cow and Calf pairs are seen frequently on their return journey and one can witness some awe–inspiring aerial displays. 

BRYDE’S WHALES are permanent residents to be seen all year round. 

ORCAS or KILLER WHALES occur occasionally throughout the year. 

MINKE  and PYGMY SPERM WHALES are occasionally seen.

COMMON DOLPHINS  occurring all year round, can be seen in groups of 2 000

or more during Spring, Summer and early Autumn. 

BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS are also around the garden route coast all year round and can also be seen in large groups. 

INDO-PACIFIC HUMPBACK DOLPHINS are a very rare species worldwide, but occur

In the ocean all year round. 

SEALS, a large and active colony of CAPE FUR SEALS lives on Robberg Peninsula and are seen fishing in and around the bay.

 GREAT WHITE SHARKS (including the more than 6 meter resident) can be seen, as well as HAMMERHEADS, RAGGED TOOTH and MAKO .

 For birdwatchers, there is the opportunity to spot a host of pelagic and coastal seabirds including the second most endangered coastal bird, the African Black Oyster Catcher.